Empress of Dirt

Fall Garden Checklist & Helpful Reminders

Melissa J. Will — Mon, 07 Sep 2026 19:02:53 +0000

This fall garden cleanup checklist covers what to tidy, organize, store, winterize, leave for the winter, and plant for spring. Tasks are listed by priority to ensure the important items are taken care of.

September Garden Checklist: Tasks & DIY Projects

Melissa J. Will — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 23:10:04 +0000

Fall marks the time in the garden for endings and new beginnings. September garden tasks include harvesting the summer crops, growing fall veggies, and, preparing the garden for winter.

2026 Fall Hummingbird Migration (Canada & United States)

Melissa J. Will — Sun, 09 Aug 2026 17:46:37 +0000

Discover when hummingbirds begin their solo fall migration from Canada and the US, and what to expect as these tiny birds head south to their wintering grounds.

August Garden Checklist: Tasks & DIY Projects

Melissa J. Will — Sat, 01 Aug 2026 15:45:22 +0000

August is our time to savor summer—harvesting, crafting, and soaking it in—while also preparing the garden for fall vegetables and planting for the year ahead.

How to Pinch Zinnias for More Blooms

Melissa J. Will — Mon, 27 Jul 2026 17:25:58 +0000

Pinching young zinnias encourages more stems, buds, and blooms for fuller plants. Learn when to do it and why this simple step makes a big difference.

Midsummer Garden Tasks: What To Do Before Fall

Melissa J. Will — Fri, 24 Jul 2026 17:36:27 +0000

With early summer behind us, midsummer is ideal for garden upkeep and fall prep. Priorities include watering, seed sowing, taking cuttings, composting, and pest control.

Growing Softwood Cuttings: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

Melissa J. Will — Mon, 20 Jul 2026 20:45:49 +0000

Use softwood cuttings to propagate new plants from favorite annuals and perennials. Includes recommended plants and detailed step-by-step instructions.

10 Vegetables That Grow in Winter (if You Start in Summer)

Melissa J. Will — Sat, 18 Jul 2026 17:17:41 +0000

Many vegetables can be grown outdoors in winter, even in cold climates. Success comes down to choosing the right crops, starting on time, and using protection like frost cloths or cold frames.

How to Grow Zinnia From Cuttings

Melissa J. Will — Wed, 15 Jul 2026 16:11:56 +0000

Growing zinnias from stem cuttings is an easy propagation method to get new plants. The cuttings can be rooted in water and will be ready for planting in just a few weeks.

How To Save Tomato Seeds (Easy Tutorial)

Melissa J. Will — Sat, 11 Jul 2026 16:29:23 +0000

Use this traditional method to collect seeds from ripe tomatoes for future sowing. Heirloom and open-pollinated types are most reliable, but the process works for any tomato, including hybrids.